Aston Villa has secured the services of Italy’s Nicolo Zaniolo from Galatasaray on a loan basis, pending the approval of a successful visa application.
Additionally, it’s reported that Aston Villa will possess an option to make the signing permanent.
Aged 24, Zaniolo is poised to step into the role vacated by Emiliano Buendia, who recently suffered a significant knee ligament injury.
Zaniolo, an attacking midfielder, had recently joined Galatasaray from Roma in January, but he is now on his way to the Premier League to represent Aston Villa.
He spoke about the move on Villa’s website, saying: “Aston Villa is one of the best teams in England and in the Premier League.
“I want to play and show my quality. Unai Emery is one of the greatest coaches in the world. And for me, this is a big occasion to show my quality.
“For the team, it’s a chance to do big things.”
Villa sporting director Monchi signed Zaniolo for Roma, developing a relationship that has likely helped the Midlands outfit seal the quickfire deal.
He scored the winning goal as the Serie A side won the inaugural Europa Conference League in 2022 — a competition Villa will compete in for the first time this term.